Symphony of the First Ride
by Sorin Choi

The pink children’s bicycle grins at me, but I don’t smile back. “You will be sorry for this,” I murmured, but just loud enough for Dad to hear.

“Oh no, I won’t. Trust me. Only five minutes and that’s all it will take.” He lifts me up and settles me on the bicycle, smiling with patience.

I have no way to escape. Okay then, I think. “This will be the first and last time I’ll ride a two-wheeled bike!” I shout.

“Sure,” Dad says, still smiling.

As Dad pushes the bicycle, I feel two wiggly wheels start rolling on the road.

“Sorin, your feet are not even on the pedals!”

“I know! I’m trying! Just remember to keep your hands holding my bike.” I touch the pedals cautiously and wonder how much it will hurt to have my feet stuck in the wheels.

As I steps the pedals, bicycle stops joggling but the stableness stretches all my nerves. I’m afraid that I will make an accident or something worse. I feel like being an inexperienced baton twirler, who is performing the musical band in front of crowed people. Suddenly, I hear applause from clicking wheels. I feel much better, and kind of proud of my self.

The pink bicycle cheers me up with a swinging rhythm; here goes one little cowardly move, and here comes another one. I gradually feel the speed. The quickening speed becomes excitement. Unexpected excitement turns into joy. I play jazz with the harmony of passing winds and turning wheels.

When I remember that I do not know how to stop the bicycle, I realize that Daddy isn’t holding my bike. Instead, I see him waving with a satisfied smile on his face, just like mine.